Tips for Working With a Food Industry Executive Recruiter
Working with an executive recruiter can be a great way to advance your career in the food and beverage industry. Executive recruiters are professionals who specialize in finding and placing qualified candidates for senior-level and niche positions at their client companies. They have access to a network of employers and opportunities that may not be advertised elsewhere. However, working with an executive recruiter also requires some preparation and strategy on your part. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your relationship with an executive recruiter as a job seeker in the food and beverage sector.
1. Do your research.
Before you contact an executive recruiter, make sure you have a clear idea of what kind of position you are looking for, what your qualifications are, and what your career goals are.
Then, look for an executive recruiter who has experience and expertise in the food and beverage industry, one who has a track record of placing candidates in positions that match your profile. You should check out the recruiter’s background, reputation, and area of specialty. Note that every face on the Kinsa Group team is one you can trust to consult with you about your career. Kinsa Group’s recruiters are driven by a commitment to your success in a new position with our clients and are thrilled about the opportunity to help food companies hire talented executives who fulfill the mission to feed the world. See our specialties in the food and beverage industry.
2. Be professional.
When you reach out to an executive recruiter, treat them as you would any potential employer because they are your gatekeeper to many potential employers all career long. Send them a resume that highlights your relevant skills and achievements in the food and beverage sector. Follow up with a phone call or email to express your areas of interest and availability to interview with them and with their client. Be prepared to answer questions about your background, motivation for a career change, and expectations in the new role. Here are some frequently asked questions—and pertinent answers—that will prepare you for the best possible experience with the Kinsa Recruiting Team.
3. Be honest.
One of the most important things to remember when working with an executive recruiter is to be honest and transparent. It won’t help to exaggerate or lie about your experience, education, or credentials as many employers verify the information Kinsa Group (or other recruiting firm partners) provide with a 3rd party background check. Additionally, don’t withhold pertinent information about your previous employment, reasons for leaving, or compensation needs and expectations. Being honest will help you build trust and credibility with the recruiter. Your recruiter can help guide you with tips for difficult conversations that may come up during interviews with the client.
4. Be proactive.
Working with an executive recruiter does not mean that you should just sit back and wait for them to find you a job. You can still be actively looking for opportunities on your own, networking with contacts in the industry, and updating your skills and knowledge. Don’t apply for positions that you are not qualified for or are not really interested in; avoid wasting time and resources for all parties.
Keep in touch with the recruiter or firm regularly, updating them on your status, progress, and feedback. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek advice, or request referrals from the recruiter. Be open to their suggestions and guidance, but also be assertive about your needs and preferences. Here are 5 Reasons to Work With a Food Industry Executive Recruiter.
5. Be respectful.
Working with an executive recruiter is really a three-way street. Recruiters work hard to respect your time, understand your expertise, and provide the utmost confidentiality. They communicate these details with their client employers and encourage a timely process from all parties involved. Don’t share confidential information about the job a recruiter has brought to you, nor their client with anyone else. Lastly, respect their role as an experienced mediator between you and the potential employer, and follow their guidance for a successful outcome.
Kinsa Group’s food industry executive recruiters and our broad network of food industry executives are always looking for top talent and we’d like to help you find the best opportunity to match your skills. If you are ready to take the next step in your career, contact us today, and let us help you find your ideal food and beverage job.
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